Ryder System, Inc., Miami, FL, has introduced e-Channel Solutions to provide clients with an integrated end-to-end logistics service ideal for e-commerce businesses operating on the Internet. e-Channel will serve customers in business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) operations.

For example, e-Channel will provide a global network for on-demand delivery to consumers. It will facilitate on-line replenishment from distribution centers to a network of neighborhood depots, then unattended or attended delivery to consumer homes. Ryder will manage the entire fulfillment channel, including the distribution centers, transportation to the neighborhood depots and final delivery through a network of couriers. Ryder will hold client inventory and offer value-added services such as gift-wrapping and card insertion in time for the 2000 holiday season. e-Channel Solutions will be launched in phases beginning in July 2000.
The service will initially serve 80 percent of the U.S. population within 72 hours via over-the-road transportation from distribution centers. Ryder will launch the service this year from distribution centers in Alliance, Texas; Cucamonga, California; and Odenton, Maryland.